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Software included with the DS-40 makes downloading podcasts easy, and the podcasts' contents are updated automatically each time the audio recorder is connected to or 'synchronized' with a computer. Podcasts and other audio content can be downloaded from many Websites. The DS-50 voice recorder is also specifically designed to work with Audible.com, a leading online provider of audio books and other spoken entertainment and information.
The Olympus DS-40 is also distinguished by a number of premium features, including the highest sound quality in the Olympus line-up with the remarkable new STXQ Stereo Sound Quality mode. The DS-40 voice recorder can record and play audio content up to 44.1kHz, which is equal to the sound quality of most CDs. A convenient removable stereo microphone is included for recording high-quality digital audio. The Olympus DS-40's Voice Guidance function talks to users, confirming which settings have been selected and helping visually challenged users to navigate the device. PC Link enables the recorder to connect to a PC via the included USB cable for quick downloading of audio files.
* Removable High-Sensitivity Stereo Microphone
* Podcast and Audible.com Support
* MP3 and WMA Digital Music Playback and Storage
* STXQ Stereo Sound Quality Recording Mode
* Record Up to 136 Hours on 512MB of Built-in Flash Memory
* Voice Guidance and Audio Instruction Manual
* USB Audio Class Compatible - Can Be Used As A USB Microphone Or USB Speaker
* Five Recording Modes: ST XQ and ST HQ Stereo Recording Modes; HQ, SP, and LP Monaural Recording Modes
* WMA Stereo Recording
* Variable Speed Playback
* USB Mass Storage Class Support
* PC Link Application Software and USB Interface
* Long Lasting Power: 32 Hours Continuous Operation On Two AAA Batteries
* Voice Activation
* Five File Folders With 200-File Capcity Each
* Index Marking and Temp Marking
* LCD Screen
* Noise Canceling Function And Low Cut Filter
* Timer Recording
* Alarm Function
* Included Accessories:
o Stereo microphone
o USB cable
o Stereo earphones
o Two AAA batteries
o DSS Player Ver.7 Software
o Instruction Manual
from MA on 3/2/2007
Comments about Olympus Olympus 141910 Digital Voice Recorder With Wma/mp3 Playback And 512mb Built-in Memory (olympus Ds40):
I am very satisfied with DS40.
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Recording quality is great even at HQ (one step lower than XQ, highest quality setting).
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User interface is very intuitive, buttons are large and easy to "feel around" without actually looking at the device.
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IT has plenty of features. Indexing, file locking, timer and many others, almost everything you may look for.
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In this age of GBs, 512MB of memory may sound less but it is plenty for a voice recording. At XQ I can record for hours, at HQ I can go for weeks before the memory will be full.
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Now the cons:
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NO rechargeable, built-in battery
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MEDIOCRE sound for playing music, even through headphones
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VERY limited set of features as an mp3 player.
Considering that you can buy an ipod nano at the same price, you would expect all these features and many more.
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External mic seems flimsy
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Side note:
I do a lot of homework before I buy any gadget. After researching, I bought Olympus WS-320M first. It was tiny and light, had 1GB memory and had a "cool" look. But its recording quality was terrible and I returned it in less than a week.
Consider buying (ipod + third party mic) if you want a great music player with good enough recording capability. I eliminated this combination because of lesser ease of use than dedicated voice recorders.